Phillips has failed to make an impact since signing for Manchester City in a £45 million deal from Leeds United in 2022, with the midfielder having made just two Premier League starts for the Citizens.

The 27-year-old has failed to earn a regular role given the competition for places in Pep Guardiola’s squad and was disappointed during the Carabao Cup exit at Newcastle last week.

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Guardiola addressed Phillips’ ongoing struggle for status and admitted he has failed to get the best from the England international since his move to the Etihad.

“Marcelo [Bielsa] gave Kalvin the best of Kalvin in his career,” Guardiola said.

“I’d love to have done with Kalvin what Marcelo has done to him. We have our own specific way to play, and [he] sometimes struggles in a few things, while the previous [Leeds playing style] was perfect for him.”

Phillips is understood to be considering an exit in January to keep alive his hopes of featuring for England at next summer’s European Championship, and Spanish publication Fichajes is reporting that Arsenal are eyeing a shock move.

Mikel Arteta wants to strengthen his midfield in January, with Thomas Partey set to depart for the Africa Cup of Nations and Jorginho linked with an exit.